Buckeye Creek Trail to the Old School Bus on The Bartram Trail

Bartram Trail Exploration near Franklin, NC

Last Saturday, while Debra was in Atlanta reffing club volleyball, I rounded up a few friends for a fun mission… find the old school bus along the Bartram Trail. The weather couldn’t have been better. Bright blue skies, cool 61-degree air, and just about perfect hiking conditions. The trail stayed calm and quiet with no wind at all until we reached the bus, where the breeze finally picked up once we were out from under the cover of the mountain. We kicked back there for about 15 minutes, enjoyed some lunch, took in the moment, and then made our way back down the trail feeling like we’d just experienced one of those simple, really good days outdoors.

Plenty of parking for this section of the trail.

If you’re looking for a fun and slightly different hiking adventure near Franklin, North Carolina, this one is worth adding to your list. The Buckeye Creek Trail connects with the Bartram Trail and leads you to one of the most talked-about sights in the area… an old school bus sitting deep in the woods. It’s a great mix of scenery, history, and just enough mystery to keep everyone curious along the way.

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TL;DR: Quick Trail Facts

• 5.4 miles out & back – A solid half-day hike that’s doable for active families.
• 1,200 ft elevation gain – A steady uphill climb that never feels too intense.
• 3 to 3.5 hours – Perfect for a morning or early afternoon adventure.
• Unique highlight – An abandoned school bus from possibly the 1940s.
• Scenic views – Mountain overlooks and peaceful forest stretches.
• Budget-friendly outing – No cost, just pack snacks and enjoy the day.
• Parking Location – Find your way to the head of the trail
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Trail Overview: What to Expect

This hike starts along Buckeye Creek Road and gradually works its way uphill until it connects with the Bartram Trail. The entire hike to the bus is about 2.7 miles one way, making it a 5.4-mile round trip.

The climb is steady but not overwhelming. It’s the kind of uphill that families with older kids or couples can handle at a relaxed pace. You’ll move through a mix of gravel road, old logging paths, and forest trail.

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As you go higher, the trail becomes a bit more rugged. The last stretch before reaching the Bartram Trail can get narrow, rocky, and sometimes overgrown. If it has rained recently, expect a few slippery spots. Good shoes make a big difference here.

Scenic Views and Quiet Moments

One of the best parts of this hike is how peaceful it feels. It’s not a crowded trail, so you can really enjoy the sounds of nature.

Lower sections near the trailhead feature small creeks and springs that add a relaxing background sound as you walk. As you climb, you’ll come across rocky outcrops that offer nice views of the surrounding mountains.

In spring and early summer, wildflowers line parts of the trail. Bright red Fire Pink flowers are a standout. Just keep an eye out for poison ivy, which shows up often along the path.

Wildlife sightings are also common. Hikers have spotted deer, salamanders like Eastern Red-spotted Newts, and even the occasional snake or walking stick insect.

The Old School Bus Mystery

Grabbing a little lunch at the halfway point.

A Hidden Piece of History

The real highlight of this hike is the old school bus sitting just off the Bartram Trail.

It’s definitely unexpected. You’re deep in the forest, surrounded by trees, and suddenly there’s a tire-less bus resting quietly in the woods.

Based on its design and lettering, the bus may date back to the 1940s. Over the years, hikers have come up with all kinds of theories about how it got there.

A well-known explanation comes from Brent Martin of the Blue Ridge Bartram Trail Conservancy. According to his research, the bus likely served as housing for migrant workers who worked at a nearby orchard decades ago. It may have also been used as storage or even a hunting cabin.

If you look closely, you can still spot signs of that past. There are hints of an old road and what appears to be a field and farm structures beyond the trees. What feels like deep wilderness today was once part of a working farm.

Most hikers take a break here, snap a few photos, and even step inside the bus to take a closer look.

Extend Your Adventure

If you’re feeling up for more, you can continue on the Bartram Trail beyond the bus. A popular option is hiking toward Wolf Rock, which adds a couple more miles and rewards you with even more views.

For families or anyone keeping things relaxed, turning around at the bus is still a very satisfying hike.

Tips for Families and Couples

• Take your time – The steady climb is easier when you keep a relaxed pace.
• Wear good shoes – The final section can be rocky and slick.
• Pack snacks and water – There are no facilities on the trail.
• Watch for plants – Stay aware of poison ivy along the path.
• Make it fun for kids – The mystery of the bus keeps younger hikers engaged.

This hike works well for a budget-friendly outing. No entrance fees, no crowds, and plenty to see along the way.

Getting There

Buckeye Creek Trailhead near Franklin, NC

Bartram Trail (North Carolina section)
https://blueridgebartram.org/

Get Outside and Explore

This hike offers something a little different from your typical mountain trail. You get scenic views, quiet forest time, and a unique piece of history that sparks curiosity. Whether you’re planning a family day outdoors or a simple getaway with your partner, it’s an experience that sticks with you.

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